Introduction
Dusty gravel roads, historic villages, and the unmistakable sound of steel frames on Tuscan gravel: Eroica is more than just a bike race — it is a tribute to cycling from the past. Originally launched in 1997 in the picturesque Gaiole in Chianti (Tuscany, Italy), the event today attracts lovers of vintage road bikes from around the world. Eroica events are now held not only in Italy, but also internationally in countries such as Spain, Great Britain, Japan, and the USA. But before you head out to one of these legendary events, one question needs to be clarified: Is your retro racing bike Eroica Ready?
For more information about the Eroica event, check also out our Eroica Blog.
1. What Does “Eroica Ready” Mean?
Eroica follows clear rules: only racing bikes that were built before 1987 or are constructed according to classic specifications can participate. The goal is to preserve the riding experience and look of past decades. Retro Road bikes such as Colnago, Bianchi, Coppi, Cinelli, Rossin, and many other legends are ideal for the race if they are restored or built according to classic standards.
Basic Rules:
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Steel frame (usually with lugs)
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Shifters on the down tube
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Brake cables: Classic, external, and routed above the handlebars (not integrated into the handlebars)
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Pedals with straps and toe clips
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Wheels with at least 32 spokes
If your bike meets these criteria, the adventure of Eroica Gaiole in Chianti or one of the many other Eroica events worldwide is within reach.
2. Technical Checklist for Your Eroica Bike
Before you get started, check the following points (or have us check them for you):
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Frame & Fork: No cracks, no hidden rust spots (brands like Colnago, Bianchi, and Gios offer excellent quality)
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Shifting: Does it work precisely? Use original or period-correct components like Campagnolo, Shimano, or Suntour
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Brakes: Classic side-pull or center-pull brakes (such as Campagnolo, Universal, or Mafac)
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Wheels & Tires: Robust tires with a light profile (ideally 23 to 28 mm wide for gravel)
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Pedals: Vintage pedals with leather straps (Campagnolo, Christophe, Simplex)
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Handlebar Tape & Saddle: Leather or cotton tape, classic leather saddle (Brooks, San Marco, Selle Italia)
3. Practical Tip: Don’t Forget Comfort
The Eroica routes, especially in Gaiole in Chianti, are challenging. Small updates (within the regulations) can significantly improve comfort:
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Adjust the gearing (e.g. Compact Crankset or larger cassette for climbing)
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Ride wider tires (if frame clearance allows)
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Use padded handlebar tape (Bike Ribbon, Cinelli, etc.). Still, our hearts belong to classic cotton handlebar tapes.
We also recommend Classic Crochet Gloves to replace a padded handlebar tape.
4. Goldensteelcycles: Your Partner for Eroica-Ready Bikes
We know what matters. Every bike in our range marked as Eroica Ready meets the requirements — technically checked, lovingly restored, and ready to go.
Our service for Eroica riders includes:
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Expert advice on regulation compliance for Eroica
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Custom restorations for retro road bicycles (such as Eddy Merckx, Pinarello, Olmo, Alan)
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Full technical inspection before the event
Whether you want to buy, restore, or customize a vintage rennrad — Goldensteelcycles is your go-to place.
Conclusion
An Eroica Ready bike is your ticket to one of the most beautiful retro cycling worlds in the world. With the right preparation, the experience will be unforgettable — and we’re here to help you get your classic road bike race-ready.
Check out our current Eroica Ready bikes or contact us for personalized advice on restoring your vintage bicycle. Goldensteelcycles will get you to the start line in style!